The Pope's Poverty

Father Francesia’s letters from Rome, as the companion and secretary of Don Bosco, are not quite exaggerated when he says talks about the business of Don Bosco. He even adds that “Don Bosco is already under siege.” Many are waiting in line to say their confessions to him, and no doubt, not all will be able to succeed. Here, the Holy Father made a donation of ninety Scudi to the Oratory. This is just about 400 lire, a small amount if coming from the Pope himself. An incident relates that at one of his audiences with the Pope, the latter wanted to give him the donation, but in opening his money box, he found it empty. He said, “Let the world know that the Pope is penniless.” he continues: “I am just like your poor boys, they rely on divine providence, while I rely on my (spiritual) children. The Lord will provide.” With this, he assures Don Bosco of both his faith, and of his monetary contribution. BM 53

Keep in mind that Don Bosco was not the only one who explicitly relied on Divie Providence. Even the Pope himself, due tocircumstances, finds himself in the same poor predicament of Don Bosco. It is worthy to note that in life, trusting in ourselves is the most despondent situation we can catch ourselves in.

Article 77: Witness of poverty in the community “...Following the example and spirit of our founder, we accept ownership of the means we need for our work and we administer them in such a way that all may realize they are being used for he service of others...”